Cobra Arm Enclosure for Street Lighting Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing street lighting systems lack centralized control and protection of electrical components from the elements, leading to inefficiencies and maintenance challenges, with many lights becoming non-functional due to lack of inspection and outdated technology.
Innovation Solution
A cobra arm enclosure device that houses electrical and electronic components within a weather-tight enclosure on existing light poles, allowing for centralized control via a 900 MHz RF mesh network and cloud-based server, enabling remote operation and maintenance of street lights without requiring new wiring or modifications to existing poles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical components are exposed on existing light poles, then installation is simple and device complexity is low, but components are vulnerable to environmental factors and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical components are nested within a weather-tight enclosure that attaches to the existing cobra arm. The enclosure contains internal mounting structures and routing channels that accommodate the components while protecting them from environmental exposure, effectively nesting the functional elements within a protective shell.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure utilizes a weather-tight shell with integrated gaskets and sealing mechanisms that conform to the cobra arm structure. The shell design includes flexible mounting options that adapt to existing pole configurations while maintaining environmental protection for the enclosed components.
2Productivity
If centralized control is implemented, then system management efficiency improves, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure serves as an intermediary node in the centralized control system, housing communication modules that interface between the existing light fixtures and the remote management system. This intermediary structure enables centralized control without requiring complete system replacement or complex wiring modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously provides environmental protection for components, houses communication equipment for centralized control, and maintains compatibility with existing light pole configurations. This universal design allows a single structure to fulfill multiple system requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing light poles are modified, then functionality is enhanced, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular components where the enclosure and its contents can be installed as a separate unit on existing poles without modifying the pole structure itself. This segmentation allows for easier installation and maintenance while enhancing system functionality through the addition of protected components and communication capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A cobra arm enclosure device has a hull, a lid, and features for a light pole and a light fixture to attach thereto. The device has a generally rectangular prismatic form that sheds precipitation and ice. It has a top surface upon the lid, a bottom surface upon the hull, a left side, a right side, a front, and a back. The enclosure has an extension that fits into a light fixture. The back of the enclosure has a receiver that fits upon a light pole arm. The enclosure has a width generally greater than that of the cobra arm. Within the invention, it has a storage capacity for electrical components. The invention is an inline enclosure for direct transmission of electrical power and signaling. The invention serves in a system where a central control operates street lighting across a city.